Spring Stitching In the Snow

Good morning, everyone! Isn't it hard to believe we're down to our last week in March? Believe me, you'd never know that April is almost here with what greeted me as I looked out my upstairs window yesterday. Yes... more snow. And not just a dusting either--we received  four inches here in western Pennsylvania. I honestly don't remember a year like this one in terms of weather. I heard a news report recently that said our area has received either rain or snow on all but nine days so far in 2013... I never thought I would be one to retire to Florida or the southern states, but, at this point, it is sounding mighty tempting!

But, things aren't all cold and wintry here...at least I've managed to bring in some spring cheer by stitching two of the cutest new designs from  The Snowflower Diaries blog. Hungarian designer, Maja Matyas Szilagi, has released the most adorable freebies for us and her "Spring Bunny Love" design (available here) immediately captured my heart. You all know how much I love bunnies, don't you? Well, who could resist this sweet courting couple? Maja's design calls for Nina's threads, but I only owned one of the suggested colors for this piece (the color for the bunnies) so I substituted various overdyeds from my collection. This is stitched "over one" and I am so pleased with how it turned out--it almost looks like a watercolor painting. I used 28 ct. bone cashel linen, ruched some wide pink satin ribbon, added some pearly white pins, and backed it with the pink and white fabric shown in the photo. I smile each time I pass by it!

"Spring Bunny Love" by The Snowflower Diaries

Maja has so many cute designs that I couldn't stop with just one! Next up was "Tulips With Bunny" (which you can find here).  For this one, I took a different approach and chose the thread colors based on a pretty piece of fabric I had been wanting to use. I simply laid out the blue flowered fabric with my white evenweave and began pulling threads until I had a combination that I thought would work well with the fabric. Would you like to see what I came up with?

Stitching choices for "Tulips With Bunny"

What do you think? I'm very pleased with this finish and I love how everything came together as I had hoped it would when I first pulled the threads. I found the palest pink ric-rak to embellish the little pillow with that perfectly matches the lighter pink in the design. This one is also stitched "over one" on white 28 ct. evenweave which, again, makes it very tiny. It will be perfect for my bowl of bunnies for Easter decorating.

"Tulips With Bunny" by The Snowflower Diaries

Here are both of them together... Thank you so much for designing and sharing your beautiful charts, Maja! You have brought smiles to stitchers worldwide with your generosity and creativity. I look forward to stitching more of your designs in the future...

Bunny love!

Now, in looking at these two finishes, you might think that I am a real "girly-girl," right? Nope! Not at all--I don't think you would find even a single article of pink clothing in my closet...Lace, sparkly things? No--not me! But, I just love creating these sweet little pillows so much. The pastels of spring stitching truly brighten my days after the long cold winter. And speaking of brightening my day, I had two lovely surprises waiting for me in the mail recently.

From sweet Maggee, at Stitching Devotee, came these two delightful charts. Maggee had listed several groupings of charts on her blog and asked if any of us would be interested in any of them as RAKs.  And just look at the lovely pair that she surprised me with: Brightneedle's "Finger Lakes Sampler" and  Ewe & Eye & Friends "Alphabet Garden." I couldn't be more pleased--they are both charts I will definitely stitch and the "Finger Lakes Sampler" has special meaning to me as that is the part of the country where my parents, brother, and sister all reside. Has anyone visited any of the Finger Lakes? It really is a lovely part of New York State--I just wish it was a bit closer so I could visit my family more often!  Thank you, Maggee, so very much for your generosity--I think the RAK chart listing is a great idea and one I hope to offer myself in the future!

 Thank you so much for the great charts, Maggee...

I love them both!

And from my dear friend, Brenda, over at  Brenda's Stitching, came these jaw-dropping gifts. I mean, I honestly just stood looking at these goodies with a goofy, stunned smile on my face when I opened the package. Just look at this sweet stitched box Brenda made for me! Isn't it adorable? And inside the box was the most lovely "ruler" I've ever seen. It is made of mother of pearl--can you imagine?

Surprise Easter gifts from Brenda!

 

One of the unique things about this handrafted box is that you can interchange the designs seasonally, so I plan on stitching a little something to place inside for each of the four seasons... And, of course, the box will always be filled with something like these pastel peanut M&Ms that I bought for Easter--yum!  Brenda, "thank you" doesn't seem adequate to express my gratitude. I am so pleased we have "met" through our blogs and I hope our friendship continues for years to come. I truly love your gifts and your kind heart...

 Beautifully stitched box from Brenda

GIVEAWAY UPDATE:  There is still time to enter my giveaway on my previous post. I have so enjoyed reading about the "simple things" that make you smile. They have made me smile, too--honestly. And I'm truly touched that so many of you would be interested in winning one of my little pillows--thanks to all who have entered. If you would like to enter, simple click here to enter your comments. The giveaway will close on March 31st...

I sure wish I was leaving you with a photo filled with dancing daffodils and beautiful birds that should be on a post dated March 26th, but this is what my backyard looked like yesterday! Easter? Hmmm... I hope no one is having Easter-egg hunts this year--the poor eggs would be totally frozen after too long in this weather!

 The last (please, please, pretty please?) snowfall of March...

Thank you all for stopping by--and for all of your wonderful and much appreciated comments. It's always nice to see who's been by for a visit! I'd like to welcome my new followers, too--so glad you're here...  And for anyone wanting to stitch that cheerful bunny in his bright yellow slicker in my new blog header, you'll be happy to know that The Cricket Collection has re-released that freebie and you can find Mr. Slicker Bunny himself:  just click right here. Happy Easter to everyone who celebrates and Happy Spring to all! Bye for now...

 

It's Giveaway Time and Things That Bring a Smile!

Good morning, everyone! March is almost half-over and here I am with only my first post of the month... What have I been up to? Well, I've been stitching a few little things to celebrate my followers--yes, that means you. I wish I could stitch something for each of you, but I fear I would be spending the rest of my life on that pursuit. As of this morning there are 1040 of you--amazing and humbling, indeed. So, even though I only have three little offerings today, I do offer my sincere thanks to each and every one of you who stop in whenever I post to take a peak or leave a kind comment. Thank you all! As I've said many times, I think our cross-stitching / blogging community is the best of any on the internet!

The other night when my two older sons were over for their usual Sunday night dinner, I told them that I was having a giveaway because I had reached 1000 followers on my blog. My oldest son, with his typical quick wit said, "Yep, mom has a whole army of stitchers!" For some reason, that image just really made me smile--can't you picture us all just marching along with needles raised and ready to conquer all that stash we have patiently waiting in our drawers and closets?

So, what have I created to send to three new homes? Well, first up is this little Prairie Schooler pillow from the "In the Woods" booklet. This sweet, brown bunny is stitched on a mystery piece of 32 ct. linen with the suggested DMC colors and is trimmed with some handmade cording in the same rose color. The fabric shown behind him is what I used to back the pillow.

Prairie Schooler Rabbit

My next offering is one you've seen before, but everyone seems to love and that is "Painted Egg" by The Cricket Collection. This is one piece I never tire of stitching because the little bird is so dear. Now, the same can't be said for the finishing--boy, do those beaded edges take me a long time. I really admire those of you who routinely finish with beaded edges--what patience you must have! This one is stitched on 32 ct. Permin twilight blue linen and uses the suggested DMC threads. The chart can be found in the The Cricket Collection's "Eggs...etera" (No. 109) booklet, which occasionally comes up for bid on Ebay.

Painted Egg by The Cricket Collection

And finally, another Prairie Schooler that I've stitched many times, but have yet to keep for myself: "S Is For Spring" stitched with the suggested DMC threads on white 32 ct. evenweave. The handmade cording is done in the same yellow as is in the flowers and it is backed with this fun brown and yellow polka-dot fabric.

Prairie Schooler's "S" Is For Spring

Here is a photo of all three together. 

Spring Giveaway Offerings

 

Would you like to give a new home to any of these little pillows? If so, please let me know in your comments and make sure to tell me which one you like best. If you'd be happy with any of these, please list them in order of preference. The contest will be open until March 31st and I will pick three winners in April. To make it more fun and more interesting for all of us, I have a little task for you. Oh, don't worry--it's easy!! I would like to know what "simple things" you see in your room right now that make you smile and why? Yes, right now--no cheating and going off into another room. Whatever room you're in--just look around and what brings a smile to your face?  Pets and people are off limits because I know they make us all happy... Is there are certain photograph, a treasured hand-me-down, or a blooming plant that always makes you light up when you pass by it? Now, it's only fair if I answer the same question, right?

Well, I blog in my kitchen at my desk in the far corner so looking around I see many things that make me smile. I'll share four of them with you here in pictures...First of all, is one of my glass-front cupboards that houses a portion of my collection of reproduction Dedham pottery bunnies. Every time I see their sweet faces peering out at me, I feel good!

Awww... who can resist those cute little guys?

My husband always says it doesn't take much to make me smile and this next "happy thing" is proof of that. I bought a package of 24 polka-dot ribbon spools the other day with my 50% off coupon at JoAnn Fabrics (for a grand total of $7.50) and every time I pass by this basket of beauties I grin. Aren't they bright and cheery? And no, I don't normally keep my finishing supplies in my kitchen, but I just took them out of their plastic wrapper and had placed them in this basket so they're temporarily sitting on my kitchen island.

 A rainbow of ribbons--polka-dotted no less!

Another thing sure to bring a smile is my little Marjolein Bastin (love her art!) corkboard to the right of my desk. On it are photos of my parents and grandparents in their younger days, of my three sons when they were all about 3 or 4 years old, my dear husband at age 30, and my sweet black kitty, Shadow. There are also two Chinese fortune-cookie "fortunes" that have special meaning ("A good book is the best of friends, the same today and forever" and "Use your education to change the world"). Plus, one of my old favorite quotes:  "She's not your typical librarian" cut from a very old magazine.

 A corkboard full of memories...

It is on this bulletin board that I keep an inspirational phrase by Edward Whymper always in sight. It simply reminds me of the importance of the way you conduct your life and that what you say and do each day  may truly have an impact on others. It reads...

 A favorite thought...

And finally, looking around my kitchen, I see these lovely flowers that my husband brought me after he returned from his recent Colorado skiing trip. I think he missed me--what do you think? This was a huge bouquet which I split into two arrangements. After the March we've had (it snowed AGAIN yesterday after being a perfect 72 degrees on Sunday!), I love having the bright colors nearby to cheer me up.

A burst of spring colors set against a snowy backdrop

Oh, and look what I saw yesterday as I peered out my kitchen window--the first robin of spring. Such a welcome sight after our long winter! Welcome back north, little one--hope you're bringing warmer weather with you.

The first robin of spring!

So, there you have it... some very simple things that made me smile recently. Now, it's your turn. If you would like to enter my giveaway, please describe something that makes you smile wherever you're reading this from and make sure to state specifically that you want to enter the giveaway. I look forward to hearing your thoughts.  As I mentioned previously, this giveway will remain open until March 31st... Best of luck to all who enter. Who knows, I may just include a few more little goodies with the stitched pieces!  

Thank you again for your visit--and I hope your day is filled with simple things that bring you a smile! Bye for now...

Blinded by the white...

Hello, hello! And how are all of my blogging buddies on this fine morning? Unfortunately, "fine morning" is simply wishful thinking on my part as it has been raining and raining for the past 24 hours here... Isn't it hard to believe that March is almost upon us? I can hardly wait for the grass to start greening up and for the first crocuses to peak through the soil. I really need a bit of spring color in my life right now--how about you? You see, I've been doing a lot of "snow" stitching lately--not exactly my favorite thing. Of all the colors, white seems to be the most difficult (and boring!) for me. Does anyone else feel that way? I don't know if it's the poor coverage or what, but it feels like a task rather than a joy...

Anyway, I'd like to share with you a big (for me!) finish... The Prairie Schooler February sampler. It is stitched on 40 ct. flax Newcastle with DMC thread and I'm so happy with how it turned out; it's such a cheerful  piece.

 Prairie Schooler February Sampler

You'll notice I made a few changes from the original (which you can see below). I substituted the pretty heart and doves for the groundhog in the upper right corner. Although the groundhog was cute (well as cute as any overgrown rodent with large yellow teeth can be!), I wanted the chart to be more about the other February holidays (Valentine's Day and President's Day) and there was already one tiny groundhog at the bottom merrily waving his American flag. The main change I made, though, was to the sun. In the original chart the sun is black (well, DMC 3371, which is nearly black!)... I mean, honestly, have you ever seen a sun that color in your life? If I had I would fear the world was ending! To me, the sun, as originally charted, looked ominous and a bit spider-like, so I used the same golden yellow that lit up the windows of the cabin for my sun and I'm  much happier with the look.

 

There are so many lovely details in this piece that commemorate American history. If you look closely you'll see the names of our most famous presidents, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, along with their birth and death dates stitched into the snow. And don't you love that border of cherries and hearts? Who doesn't remember the story of George Washington chopping down the cherry tree and the countless "cherry-related" activities we did as children in elementary school? Well, it turns out that the whole "I cannot tell a lie" thing supposedly spoken by George as he confessed to chopping down the cherry tree was a myth! It all began with a man named Parson Mason Weems who invented that part of George's life as a way to teach children about telling the truth when he wrote an early biography of his life! Hmm...not very truthful on his part, was it? Oh, well... another childhood illusion shattered...

Prairie Schooler February Sampler

I  also have a small finish from January that I forgot to share with you last time. Again, there was a lot of white stitching involved!  I had such a hard time getting the white snowflakes to show up on the 28 ct. gray Monaco until I decided to use two threads of B5200 just for them (everything else is stitched with just one thread since I stitched it "over one)." I used the suggested overdyeds  and backed it with the pretty white on white fabric shown in the background. I really love the look of the Word Play series, but for some reason, I didn't love stitching it. I'm not sure why; being a librarian I love words, but I struggled with making myself sit down and finish it. I had planned to stitch the Word Play design for each month this year, but I don't think that is going to be happening. I'm sure I'll stitch them all eventually, just not this year.

January Word Play

Now, although that dainty white bow in the left corner looks very charming--it really wasn't part of my original finishing plan. I had a "little"--ahem--mishap when I was ironing my finished piece. You see, I had basted the thin white ric-rac on with red thread when I sewed my pillow together. After turning it right side out after sewing the pillow on my machine, I was giving it a quick pressing when all of a sudden this red blob appeared on the white--horrors!! All I can surmise is that some of the red thread that I had pulled out from the basting had stuck on the ironing board cover and the iron accidentally got too close to the synthetic ric rac and it melted the red thread right on to the white trim. Oh, I tried everything to remove it that I could think of--I even tried filing it with a nail file, but to no avail...The red was now a permanent part of my design!

 Never again will I use red thread to baste white trim!!

I was very proud of myself, though--I didn't freak out! Honestly.. I simply took a deep breath and tried to think of different ways to disguise my mistake. I thought a cute yo-yo would cover it up nicely, but I didn't have any fabric that looked just right with all of the colors in the design. I thought about buttons, but none of them seemed just right either... SO, one of my little bows came to the rescue! Oh, I could have taken the whole pillow apart and started over, but having already trimmed the seams, it would have been difficult. So, I went with the quick and easy approach, glued a bow on top of the red blob, and no one is the wiser. You wouldn't even have known about it if I hadn't told you, would you? Anyway, I'm very pleased with it and these little snow buddies seem to like their new friend in his miniature wagon, too...

 January Word Play

Earlier this month, I was the lucky winner of a giveaway held by Vickie at A Stitcher's Story in honor of her 200+  followers. Vickie makes the most adorable bottlecap pincushions. Just look at this little beauty in winter blue filled with Vickie's handmade pins. I had admired them on Vickie's blog, but had no idea just how tiny they truly are until this one showed up at my house. She also sent a cute pen with the word "Stitch" stitched onto black fabric and inserted into the pen's casing--what a great idea. A charming sampler rounded out the giveaway goodies. Thank you so very much, Vickie--I am just thrilled with each and every gift!

Giveaway win from Vickie

And from my sweet friend, Catherine at Bramblewood Stitches, came a little surprise on a day when I really needed a smile. I arrived home from my last visit to my parents and found a very sweet card with the prettiest decorated pins waiting for me. I really must learn how to make these pins that you all are making. They look like such fun! The card you sent is so "me," Catherine--I think it will be a perfect one to frame for my sunroom. Thank you again for your friendship and for your thoughtfulness!

RAK from Catherine

This month has been crazy-busy at work with four of the seven librarians in our department on vacation for almost two weeks. The three of us poor souls trying to cover a reference desk that is open 69 hours a week has been exhausting. If you work with the public you know exactly what I mean!! 99% of the people are great, but there are always a few who nothing will satisfy. So, as you can imagine, I'm more than ready for March to arrive and for my work schedule to return to my normal 2½  days a week. Hopefully, I'll be a bit more productive in my stitching next month, too...

Thank you all for stopping by today--I really appreciate your visit. And I want to give my newest followers a warm welcome--so glad you've found my blog. I'm still trying to come up with a little something for my 1000+ follower giveaway so stay tuned! Enjoy your day, my friends. Bye for now...

Valentine Freebie Finishes

Good morning, my stitching friends! And how is February treating you so far? I know you'll all be envious when I tell you what my husband brought me back from his recent Florida trip. Why, he so generously gifted me with a lovely, lovely... C-O-L-D! Yes, after two years of being cold-free, I've been down for the count for the past five days. Luckily, from what I hear, it is on the mild side as colds have been going this winter, so I really can't complain. In the past 17 years, I have used only one sick day from work so I'm usually quite healthy, thank goodness. I am still hoping that nasty flu doesn't appear on our doorstep, though! Has anyone remained cold or flu-free this winter? It seems like almost every one of you has come down with one or the other!

I needed some bright colors after all the white and gray our winter has brought this season so I've been working on a few cheery little Valentine finishes--and guess what? All of them are freebies! I am always so grateful to the talented cross stitch designers out there who share their creativity with us in the form of freebies, aren't you? It is a wonderful way to introduce us to their larger designs, too.

When I first saw this love-letter carrying little bird, I fell in love with him! He is a freebie designed by the very creative Luli which you can find right here. He is part of a larger design of four birds, but you know me and my love of smalls--I decided to stitch him all by himself. He just looks so sweet flying his Valentine to someone's true love, doesn't he? This design is stitched on 40 ct. pearl gray Newcastle with a variety of overdyeds and is finished with some white satin ruched ribbon and pearly white pins. I slightly changed the bird's body and then added the three little red hearts in the front. Every time I look at him, I just want to say--you are SO cute (well, actually, I do say that!).

 Luli's "Love" freebie

When I showed my husband my little bird carrying the love letter, he asked if it was for him and I was so surprised! I never dreamed that he would want anything stitched by me. But then I thought, well, why not? After all, if I gave him something stitched by me it would be a permanent Valentine rather than just an overly expensive greeting card that would eventually end up stashed in a drawer somewhere. So I set out to find the perfect thing and when I saw this little freebie by Cathy Habermann, I knew it was ideal. It stitched up fairly quickly and so I decided to embellish the finish and make it even more special.

"Love You More" freebie

The red and white fabric is definitely vintage--at least 40+ years old. If you wonder how I know that, it's because this is a scrap of fabric that I had saved from my sewing days in high school. Yes, I had made a top for myself (probably a peasant-style blouse which was very much "in-style" back then or it could have been a halter top--remember those anyone?!) Before you laugh--remember that this was back in the late '60s/early '70s when everything was about hearts and flowers, peace and love. That's what makes this so special;  it was something that was around when I first met my husband at the tender age of 19. I wish you could see (and feel!) the fabric in person because it is covered with red flocked hearts and flowers--so very cute! I jazzed it up with a bit of black fabric, brass heart charm, and black handmade cording. Do you think he will like it?

"Love You More" freebie

I've been asked many times how I come up with the combinations of fabrics and trims that I use in my little pillows... Well, the first step is to pull everything from drawers and cupboards in the colors used in a design and then begin eliminating things. Sometimes a print is too large or too small or the colors just aren't quite right so they are put away. Sometimes an idea I had in mind gets totally put aside when I hold up another fabric or trim and--wow--I know immediately, that that is the way I now want to go.  I found another very quick-to-stitch freebie at the Sub Rosa blog and after looking through my piles of fabrics and trims, I decided that these were the ones I wanted to use...

"True Love" freebie

Rather than stitching the design all in red as was charted, I added some color in the form of green leaves and gray birds. I also changed the four lower hearts to a checkerboard design and eliminated the words "True Love." The next step involves layering and configuring the fabrics differently to get a pleasing look. I just place them alongside my design in different combinations until I find a design that makes me smile. Would you like to see how this one ended up? Well, here it is--a bright, cheery spot of mid-winter color...

"True Love" freebie

So, now I have three quick, new smalls for my bowl of February finishes. None of them took more than a few hours to stitch and then a couple more hours to pull together for a finish.  I've also been working on a larger (for me!) piece which I hope to have finished or my next post.

I want to thank two very thoughtful blogging friends for their recent treats.  From my dear friend, Lois, came these wonderful birthday gifts. I just love the little blue scissor fob she made for me--it is so beautifully stitched and finished. And, of course, the delicious chocolate is already half-eaten. Lois also tucked in a pretty Brightneedle chart called "Something Blue," some flowery buttons, and a lovely calendar from Northern Ireland. Judging from the photos in the calendar, I've just added a new place to my "must-visit" list--the scenery from Northern Ireland looks spectacular! Thank you, Lois, for extending my birthday a bit longer and for your very special gifts and friendship...

Birthday gifts from Lois!

And from my sweet friend, Myra, came this adorable heart-shaped mug mat! I fear that it is much too pretty to use as a mug-mat, Myra, and I may use it as a candle mat in front of my February bowl of smalls. Myra's work is just wonderful and if you haven't visited her blog, run on over--you're in for a treat. Thanks so very much, my friend--your gift came on a day when I wasn't feeling my best and it certainly gave me a nice boost!

Valentine Gift from Myra!

Do you have any special plans for Valentine's Day? I'll be up in New York visiting my parents (my first two true loves!), but this time my dear husband will be making the five-hour drive with me, so that will make it special. (However, I'm still hoping for a nice box of chocolates from him--hint, hint!!). Anyway, I wish you all a happy week ahead--my thoughts are with all of you in the New England area--sure hope your power returns soon and that you can dig out from all of that snow that winter storm Nemo dropped on you.

Before I forget, here is one new honor for my city of Pittsburgh just in time for Valentine's Day... It was recently chosen by Forbes Magazine as one of the 10 Unexpectedly Romantic Cities in the entire world. Yes, the world--not just the United States!! Who knew? The link to the article and the list of the other nine cities is here. Is your city on it, too? Pittsburgh has come a long, long way from its old steel industry days--it has really blossomed as you can see in this photo.

 The city of Pittsburgh

Thanks so much for visiting me this week. Oh, one last thing--I noticed that my last post pushed my follower numbers up to (gulp!!) 1000+!!! Amazing and humbling that so many of you find my little blog interesting enough to read--truly. I think a giveaway is in order, don't you? Give me a few weeks to think of what to offer as I have a very busy two weeks coming up at work. Thank you all again for your wonderful comments, emails, and most of all--thank you for your friendships. Bye for now...

Happy Valentine's Day 

to my dear stitching friends!

A few more ornaments to share...

Warm greetings to you my friends on yet another frigid morning here in western Pennsylvania! The good news is that this cold streak is ending--well, for a few days at least. According to our trusty weathermen, Friday's high will be back down in the teens. Oh well, February will be a short month and then we're into March which means spring is just around the corner (at least that's what I keep telling myself)...

I have a few more ornaments which I sent out for Christmas gifts in December that I wanted to share with you today. It took a while for all of them to arrive. The differences in mail delivery times confound me--I mean I mailed a package to Spain which arrived in a week, but another package sent to England on the very same day took almost three weeks to be delivered!  The important thing is that all of my ornaments have finally made their way to new homes and were well received and for that, I'm ever so grateful...

For my friend, Lois, I stitched an older Prairie Schooler design which I'm sure most of you will recognize. I just love this giant bunny leaping over the little house on a starry winter's night! For this one, I used 40 ct. flax Newcastle and the suggested DMC colors and added some buttons and red jingle bells to the trim for a little accent. I'm sure this bunny is happily nestled in his new home in Northern Ireland. I loved stitching him for you, Lois!

Prairie Schooler Rabbit from "A Prairie Christmas"

 (Book No. 10)

This Little House Needleworks ornament simply called "Joy" was sent to my friend Cindy. The funny thing is, I received the exact same ornament (which I dearly love!) from my friend June for Christmas! I used 40 ct. antique white Newcastle and the suggested DMC threads for it... Also added some Mill Hill beads (#02052) and handmade cording in DMC 3052 to finish it off. I hope this little gift brings you much J-O-Y in the new year, Cindy!

 

Little House Needleworks: "Joy"

I liked this older Prairie Schooler ornament so much that I stitched it for not one, but two friends in December! The partridge wanted a warmer climate so he flew south to live with both Myra in North Carolina and Robin (no blog) in Virginia! This one is from PS "The Twelve Days of Christmas" (Book No. 74) and was stitched on 40 ct. flax Newcastle. I made a few changes in that I stitched another leaf in place of the number "1" that was charted and I changed the lettering to a gold color (DMC 420). Both Myra and Robin seemed very happy with their new "pets" and it was a pleasure to stitch for such sweet friends.

Prairie Schooler Partridge (Book No. 74)

"The Twelve Days of Christmas"

Obviously, I was on a Prairie Schooler kick in December because another one sprang from my needle and headed all the way down to Kentucky and my friend, Shirlee. Shirlee loves snow and reindeer so I thought this would be a fitting choice for her. It is stitched on 40 ct. flax Newcastle with DMC threads. I then used the same green checked gingham that I accented Lois's ornament with and added some rope-like trim and four buttons.  I hope you are reminded of me each year when you hang it on your tree, Shirlee!

Prairie Schooler Deer from "A Prairie Christmas"

Book No. 10

For the second year in a row, my English friend, June, received an ornament stitched by me from Plum Pudding NeedleArt. Last year, I stitched her the little gingerbread boy and this year I made her the snowman from the same booklet called "Candy Cane Wishes." There is one design left in the book--hmmm...I wonder what June will be receiving next year? I stitched it over one on 28 ct. light natural Jobelan using the suggested DMC threads and added a ruched ribbon edging with some gauzy burgundy ribbon. Isn't he cute!

Plum Pudding Needleart snowman

from "Candy Cane Wishes"

To my young friend, Edit, who lives in Spain, went this pretty design from an older Just Cross Stitch magazine (November/December 1997). It is called "Folk Doves" and is designed by Ginger & Spice. I used DMC 115 on 32 ct. white Jobelan and dressed it up with some contrasting fabrics and bit of lace trim. I thought this ornament was fitting for Edit because her year was filled with lots of love--she has a brand new baby! I also stitched a little ornament for her new daughter, but forgot to photograph it before I sent it on its way, so if you'd like to see it, you can go to Edit's post right here.

Ginger & Spice: "Folk Doves"

Next we have an "oldie, but goodie" that is now making it's home with my local stitching buddy, Linda. I've always loved this design called "Winter's Eve" by Country Cottage Needleworks. It is from the 2006 ornament issue of Just Cross Stitch magazine and is stitched on 32 ct. flax Belfast using the suggested threads. I kept the finish quite simple with some handmade white cording and a cluster of jingle bells topping the white satin ribbon on the hanger. I hope this little gift brought a smile to your face, Linda!

Country Cottage Needleworks: "Winter's Eve"

My final ornament went to my friend, Mary, and is one of my favorites. I stitched it for Myra last year--next year, perhaps I'll make one for myself! This is by Plum Pudding NeedleArt and is called "Winter's Song." I think it is one of the prettiest designs out there--just love the sentiment on it and the darling cardinal. I stitched this piece over one on 28 ct. Bay Leaf Jobelan using DMC threads and added a simple handmade cording and green and white gingham bow... Mary seemed quite happy with it and I am so pleased to add to her growing collection of Carol-stitched ornaments!

Plum Pudding NeedleArt: "Winter's Song"

Whew! That was a lot of stitching for one month, wasn't it? Does anyone have a favorite? I know I say this every year, but I really need to start my Christmas gift stitching earlier! I think I'll try to do one each month and squirrel them away for gift-giving in December... I hope each recipient loved her ornament as much as I loved stitching them! I know I treasure the things that were stitched for me at Christmas time...

BIRTHDAY NEWS: Well, first of all--thank you, thank you for all of my wonderful birthday wishes on my last post! You sure know how to make a girl smile!! An Italian blogging friend, Pat, commented that it was also her husband's 58th birthday on January 16th--we are "birthday twins!" It's a small world, isn't it?  I also received two more lovely gifts from two of my oldest and dearest stitching friends which I'd like to share with you...

I'm not sure if any of you heard my cries of joy when I opened Myra's gifts on January 16th, but I'm sure I could be heard well into the next county!! Just look at what she made for me--one of her beautiful stitching wallets... Isn't it gorgeous?! Tucked inside was a package of needles and there are three compartments to hold threads, scissors, and even a small chart or two. I absolutely love it, Myra--and you couldn't have picked prettier blue fabrics for me. But, that's not all she sent; I also received a delightful bar of fragrant soap, two Vera Bradley notepads, some finishing ribbon, and an assortment of chocolates (which are long gone!). Thank you so much, my generous friend--you certainly spoiled me this year!

Birthday gift from Myra!

More birthday gifts from Myra!

And from my long-time friend way up in Canada, dear Cathey (who many of you know as "Pumpkin") came a wonderful gift certificate from my favorite online shop 1-2-3 Stitch. When I opened my email that morning and read of her gift, tears came to my eyes... As many of you know, Cathey has been dealing with some major health issues over the past months and I couldn't believe she remembered me on my birthday with all she has on her plate right now. That just shows what a caring and thoughtful friend I have! She also has the most darling little baby with the cutest dimples I have ever seen.  Thank you so very much, my sweet friend--your gift truly touched me...

 

Birthday gift from Cathey!

RAK received:  What a delightful surprise came from a new blogging friend in England last week. Michelle, from Michelle's Stitch Craft Place blog made this delightful red and white pincushion and sent it to me as a RAK  to thank me for my inspirational finishes on my blog. Wasn't that sweet? I just love it, Michelle, and I have already added it to my basket of pinkeeps stitched by friends around the world. I forgot to take a photo of the back of it, but it had the cutest red and white snowflake pattern and a darling fabric label that Michelle added. She has a photo of the back of it on her blog so go take a look and tell her I said "hello!" Thank you again, Michelle, for the lovely gift and for the beautiful card--I'll treasure them both!

RAK from Michelle!

Well, I actually do have a couple of new finishes to show you, but I think I'll save those for next time. Right now, I can hardly move due to having shoveled my entire driveway (and it is a long driveway!) and two sidewalks this past weekend. You see, my husband has been in sunny southern Florida visiting his parents and brothers for the past week so the shoveling fell on my shoulders (and arms, and back, and hands!). We got about five new inches of snow, but luckily, it was the powdery light stuff so it wasn't too bad. It's just that I used muscles that I normally don't use. I think a nice hot bath might be in order before I head off to work this morning...

Thank you all for visiting me today--I am so happy when I see your comments as they let me know you've dropped by. And a warm welcome to my new followers--I hope you'll visit often! Thanks again for your sweet birthday thoughts--it made turning 58 much easier (well, a bit easier at least!). Bye for now...

They do roll around quickly...

Birthdays, that is! Yes, today marks yet another year in my march toward the big 6-0!! I'm 58 today, but the thought of that milestone birthday still two years away is very much in my thoughts  these days for some reason. Here is one of my favorite photos taken on my very first birthday... I just love those pudgy baby fingers exploring the ribbons on my birthday present. What is it about chubby babies that is so appealing--just love them!! And how about those vintage birthday cards? I spot a smiling rabbit on each and every one--I guess I liked bunnies even way back then. This was taken in Buffalo, NY back in the mid-50s by my dear dad who was in medical school at the time. I wonder if I got a chance to sample that yummy looking chocolate cake my mom so lovingly baked for me? If so, I'll bet she carefully removed the sweet, lace pinafore that I wore in this photo...

 

January 16, 1956 ~ one year old!

My husband and two older sons surprised me with an early birthday celebration on Sunday. What a wonderful treat that was as I had just spent five hours driving back from visiting my parents in New York and was very tired. They made chicken parmesan and a nice salad and treated me to some wonderful stitchy gifts--a couple of charts from my wish list, lots of overdyed threads, and a few gift certificates to various online shops and JoAnn Fabrics. They obviously have learned what makes me smile... And when mom is smiling, all is right with the world--everyone knows that!

I finally have my first finish for 2013 and it is a finish for my blogging friend, Brenda, who just happens to share my birthday today! Brenda is the proud "mama" to two adorable Scottie dogs and when I saw this freebie from The Cricket Collection, I just knew I had to stitch it for her. I thought the design would really "pop" on black so I chose 32 ct. black Belfast linen for the job and used most of the suggested DMC colors. I did change the green on the dog's sweater a bit and I added a silver jingle bell in the "bow" of the stitched mitten. The fabric shown in the background is the backing of the little pillow. Brenda seemed to enjoy my little gift and I'm so happy!

 

Cricket Collection freebie stitched for Brenda's birthday

BIRTHDAY THANKS... I was lucky enough to receive some very special gifts on my birthday as well... From my long-time blogging friend, Cindy, came two cute charts and fabric, fabric, and more fabric!! She covered just about every season--from the spring flowers to the patriotic colors to the Halloween spooky designs to the green and red Christmas prints. WOW! I will have to get busy and make some more little ornaments and pillows to use these up, Cindy!  You were so sweet to remember me with all you have going on in your life right now--I am truly touched... Thank you so very much!

Birthday gifts from Cindy

From the always sweet Sue came this beautifully handmade stitching pocket. In her card she noted that it is stitched on 32 ct. Golden Promise linen with WDW Williamsburg Blue. Isn't it lovely? She monogrammed it with the letter "C" from one of the Sajou alphabets and added the prettiest antique ivory trim at the very top of the pocket. I just love it, Sue--you were so thoughtful and kind to remember me on my big day. Oh, and that Godiva chocolate bar is certainly an extra-special treat, too!! Thank you so very much for your sweet gifts, my friend!

 Birthday gifts from Sue

All the way from England and my friend, June, came this exquisite needlebook--my very first!! I had admired those miniature spools that she used to adorn one of her creations so I was thrilled to see that she added them to the ribbon on the needlebook. Don't you love the color of blue she chose? I think that is why blue is my favorite color; there are just so many shades of it--from the royal blue that June used to turquoise to the palest icy blue of a winter sky--I love them all! She also included a magnetic bookmark and some cute thank you cards. I love my gifts, June--you really are so kind to remember me and my special day!

Birthday gifts from June

And from my West Virginia stitching friend, Donna (no blog), came this wonderful assortment of charts...all new to me! She included the Waxing Moon "Lost Mitten Angel" chart, the Lizzie Kate "Love Sampler," and Twisted Thread design called "Easter Hare." Along with them she added a Marjolein Bastin bookmark. Have I ever mentioned how much I love Marjolein Bastin designs? And the bunnies  pictured on the bookmark are adorable! Thank you so very much, Donna--everything is delightful! It has been a pleasure getting to know you this past year...

Birthday gifts from Donna

Thank you all so very much for your thoughtful remembrances--your friendships are the best part of your gifts and I treasure each one of you!

Many of you are aware of Melanie--or the amazing Melanie as I like to call her, who blogs at Moonraker Lampwerks. I call her amazing because she is one of those crafters who can do multiple things and do them all so well--from her knitting to her stitching to her bounteous and beautiful handcrafted beads, her blog is a joy to read. She recently let me borrow one of her cross stitch charts and when it arrived I saw that she also surprised me with two of her adorable handmade beads... Aren't they adorable? Check out her blog--you'll love it as much as I do! Thank you, Melanie, for the special treats--I'm thrilled to own some of your beads!

Beautiful beads from Melanie

I know I promised to show you my final Christmas ornaments in this post, but I'm out of time this morning--will definitely get to it next week, okay? Thank you, thank you for all of your wonderful comments on my last post--I guess you liked my "Year of the Bowl" as much as I did. I have to admit, I'm missing making all of those little pillows very much.  Welcome, too, to my new followers--I'm so happy you're here. I'm way, way behind on answering emails and commenting, but will definitely catch up this week. Can't wait to spend another creative stitching year with all of you! Bye for now...